The 2024 NFL Draft has been exciting, unpredictable, and must-see TV. After two nights and three rounds of action, we prepare to close out this illustrious event with rounds four through seven.
As I did before night two, I compiled a list of the five best talents left on the board heading into day three of the 2024 NFL Draft.
1. Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Oregon’s Troy Franklin brings a true deep ball specialist to an offense. He has the speed and explosiveness that you cannot teach in addition to plus route-running and a plus release package. He is coming off a season where he averaged 17 yards per catch. One thing the NFL appreciates at the wide receiver position is speed. I do not think Franklin will have to wait long to hear his name called on day three with multiple teams needing wide receiver talent.
2. Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee
We saw four running backs drafted on night two of the 2024 NFL Draft. One of the better RBs left on the board is the most explosive, Jaylen Wright. He is a home run threat from anywhere on the field. He pairs speed and sudden moves in the tackle box to break past the second level of the defense. Teams who need to add some juice to their rushing attack should have Wright high on their draft boards.
3. Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Three tight ends have been drafted within the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft. Once viewed as the TE2 of the class, Ja’Tavion Sanders is still available heading into day three. Sanders combines contact balance and a quick burst to threaten defenses after the catch. He is an ideal flex or F-tight end, where he can be moved all over the offensive formation to create mismatches and advantageous opportunities. Sanders is one of the best-remaining talents on the board when the fourth round opens.
4. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, SAF, Texas Tech
There was a run on safety prospects on night two with six coming off the board. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson has a similar skill set as the guys selected before him. Taylor-Demerson is an intelligent and explosive athlete who fits multiple coverages. He can wear numerous hats on defense and handle different responsibilities to help his unit find success. A safety with his alignment versatility and explosive athletic profile is expected to entice a team on the last day of the draft.
5. Austin Booker, EDGE, Kansas
Austin Booker’s testing was underwhelming at the NFL Scouting Combine. This could explain why he has slipped past the first two nights of the draft. He is a developmental prospect with a great motor and desire to succeed. Booker has a nasty spin counter and plays with good quickness upfield. His wingspan is a nice advantage to stay clean from opponents' punches. He has fluid moves and defensive techniques to avoid punches. Someone is going to get a steal when his name is called.
